Tag Archives: hr policies

Checking job or employment references is time-consuming and frequently unsatisfactory, as many employers, despite recent legislation, refuse to offer more than dates of employment, salary history and job title. Secondly, if you’re not careful, each reference check can turn into a friendly chat during which you don’t obtain the information you need to make an objective decision about hiring your candidate.

As with most Human Resources processes, a standard reference checking format is useful. You can easily compare candidates and ensure you are asking the “right” questions to make an educated decision before offering the applicant a job with your company.

I don’t check references until we are ready to make an offer to a candidate. This saves staff time and demonstrates our respect for the candidate. After all, you don’t know whether his current employer or her favorite professor even knows. That he or she is looking for a new position. (I prefer candidates who tell their employer, but realize this isn’t always possible, or even desirable.)

Here is the format use to check references.

(Verify that the candidate’s reference checking permission signature is on your employment application before starting the interview.)

I ______________ a prospective employee of [Company Name] understand that I am required to undergo a physical examination to determine my fitness for the job duties, due to the nature of the job. In order to create and maintain a safe work environment, I hereby give my consent for [Company Name] to conduct the physical examinations it considers necessary as outlined in its “Physical Examination” policy. I fully understand that this exam is a condition for employment.

I authorize the laboratory or medical personnel to release the results to the Company for whatever use the Company deems appropriate. Further, I release the laboratory or medical personnel conducting the exam, the Company, and the Company´s employees, directors, officers, and successors from any liabilities, claims, and causes of action, known or unknown, contingent or fixed, that may result from this physical examination. I agree not to file any lawsuit or other action to assert a claim.

I have read and understood this agreement, and I sign this without any coercion or duress by any individual or institution.